Chicago Air and Water Show 2001 Thunderbird solo display

 

The  bad weather on Saturday made me leave early, so I didn't see the Thunderbirds display that day.

 

Sunday was better, but there was still a lot of moisture in the air, which made it difficult to take clear photographs.

  

However, with the aircraft passing virtually overhead, it was hard not to get some good photos...

 

It's a matter of considerable pride for the ground crews to keep the aircraft as clean and shiny as possible.  On this plane's left wing you can even see the reflections of the white trim paint which is on the lower surfaces.

 
  

 
 

One benefit of the moisture laden air was the vapor trails left by the aircraft as they move at high speed, creating a partial vacuum which condenses the water out of the air.